by Stephanie Pretorious
The School of Journalism and Media Studies recently hosted seven aspiring journalists from around South Africa as part of the annual ‘Vulindlela Summer School’.
‘Vulindlela’ is an Nguni word meaning to ‘open the way’. This is exactly what this project aims to do – open the way for youngsters in South Africa who want to pursue a career in journalism.
All seven students will be studying in the School this year. This programme gave them the opportunity to engage with academics about what it means to be a journalist in South Africa. The week was filled with workshops, seminars and a variety of social activities. In addition, students were equipped with various skills to help orientate them into life at a tertiary institution.
At the end of the week the participating students were full of excitement and eager to begin their studies. They all agreed that the ‘Vulindlela Summer School’ had equipped them with the necessary skills to ensure success. Tshegofatso Modise from Midrand said, “The ‘Vulindlela Summer School’ gave me the head-start I needed for studying JMS in 2011. I enjoyed all the workshops and all the cool tips and hints the lecturers gave us.” Thabiso Maganca from Grahamstown agreed "During this week I learnt that being a journalist is harder than it looks and I'm glad I know now because I now know what I'm getting into."